Welcome to the Thomas Giordano Middle School, I.S. 45
My first semester of student teaching -- working with high school students at Fordham Leadership Academy of Business & Technology(FLABT) -- is done. Now I am returning to the middle -- middle school. I am anxious to see how the experience compares as I head to my new assignment -- the Thomas Giordano Middle School, I.S. 45.
Whereas FLABT was a struggling school, lacking in equipment, supplies and manpower, I.S. 45 seems like the mystical kingdom of Shangri La from James Hilton's LOST HORIZON -- a paradise! Though the schools are only three streets apart, what a difference there is! This school is well-organized, with clear concise rules of behavior that are implemented, not just talked about. Here, the students are held accountable for their actions and have a clear routine. Teachers routinely touch base with one another to follow up on things that effect students on both an individual and large scale way. and what makes this a true paradise: there is a White Castle on the corner!!!
I am working with two classes for double periods each -- one period devoted to reading and the other to writing. The first class is general population; the other is a "world" class -- filled with former ELL's who have tested out of the program and who will be working in a 100% English Language environment for the first time. Though I was scared that there might be a communications problem, all of these student speak and listen to English very fluently. Their English writing skills -- that's another story.
My cooperating teacher, Ms. Delainey Amador, is a tough disciplinarian. She stands for no nonsense in her classroom, yet allows the students freedom to be creative and explore. This is a great mix.
I'm looking forward to seeing what comes next.
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